In a move signaling a rigorous new chapter of national expansion and financial discipline, Portillo’s (NASDAQ: PTLO), the iconic Chicago-born fast-casual powerhouse, has announced the appointment of Kevin Kalicak as its new Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Effective September 7, 2026, Kalicak will step into the cockpit of a brand that has successfully transitioned from […]

NEW ORLEANS, LA – As the heat of late summer settles over the Gulf Coast and beyond, Ruby Slipper, the acclaimed New Orleans-born powerhouse of breakfast and lunch, has announced a vibrant new seasonal menu designed to capture the essence of August. Starting August 5, the restaurant group—renowned for its “Big Easy” hospitality and creative […]

Despite approaching the milestone of 700 locations, First Watch—the Florida-based leader of the daytime dining segment—still feels like it is in the midst of a "coming-out party." This sentiment, voiced by CEO Chris Tomasso, encapsulates a unique paradox in the American restaurant landscape: a brand that is simultaneously the fastest-expanding full-service concept in the country […]

CHICAGO, IL – In a move that signals a strategic reinforcement of its domestic operations, McDonald’s Corporation has officially announced the appointment of Skye Anderson as the new President of McDonald’s USA. A veteran of the company with over 26 years of tenure, Anderson takes the helm of the organization’s largest and most influential market […]

MINNEAPOLIS — Chipotle Mexican Grill has proactively removed jalapeños from several of its locations across Minnesota following a localized outbreak of Salmonella Javiana. The move, described by the company as a voluntary and precautionary measure, comes as state health officials investigate a cluster of illnesses that have impacted multiple quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains in the […]

ATLANTA, GA — Mellow Mushroom, the legacy stone-baked pizza franchise known for its eclectic atmosphere and psychedelic-inspired branding, has announced a significant promotional initiative aimed at capturing the family demographic during the mid-week slump. In an era where dining out has become a scrutinized luxury for many American households, the chain is offering free meals […]

ATLANTA, GA – In a move that signals a significant evolution in its global marketing strategy, Auntie Anne’s, the world’s leading pretzel franchise, has announced its first-ever global brand partnership. The collaborator is no small player in the entertainment world: DreamWorks Animation’s Gabby’s Dollhouse, a preschool powerhouse that has dominated streaming charts since its inception. […]

LAKELAND, FL — In a decisive move to reverse years of domestic contraction and revitalize its market presence, Checkers & Rally’s Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. has announced the appointment of Peter Busse as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). Busse, a veteran of the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry with high-level experience at Torchy’s Tacos and Yum […]

DALLAS, TX – Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLAY), the preeminent owner and operator of high-volume entertainment and dining venues, has officially announced a significant shift in its executive leadership. Tarun Lal, who has served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer since July 2023, has informed the Board of Directors of his decision to […]

PHILADELPHIA, PA – In a move that further solidifies its position as a cornerstone of the Mid-Atlantic culinary scene, Amada, the flagship Spanish tapas restaurant from James Beard Award-winning Iron Chef Jose Garces, has officially debuted a comprehensive reimagining of its beverage program. Launched simultaneously at its iconic Old City Philadelphia location and its expansive […]